Last updated: December 21, 2023
What Does
Chandra Namaskara Mean?
Chandra Namaskara is a sequence which reveres and honors the energy of the moon. The name is derived from the Sanskrit, chandra, meaning “moon,” and “namaskara,” meaning “salutation.” Although they are less well known than the Surya Namaskara practice, they complement it perfectly, as they embrace the opposite, interconnected energy.
Chandra Namaskara is considered more yin in nature than the intrinsically yang Surya Namaskara. As such, Chandra Namaskara is a more cooling, meditative sequence of postures, which is ideally to be practiced in the evening. These postures can also be used in the same practice as Surya Namaskara in order to balance their dynamic energy.
Chandra Namaskara is known as Moon Salutation in English.
Yogapedia Explains Chandra Namaskara
The sequence of asanas for Chandra Namaskara has many variations, but will often involve moving to the right and left, and facing the long edge of the mat. The side stretches and circular movements of the sequence can be considered to represent the phases of the moon as it waxes and wanes.
In practicing Chandra Namaskara, it is helpful to take the focus inward and to reflect on the meaning and significance of the moon and its energy for Earth and oneself. The practice can then be one of gratitude for the moon and all it offers.
Chandra Namaskara is also beneficial for:
- Strengthening all major muscle groups
- Improving flexibility
- Calming the mind
- Grounding and focusing the body and mind
Practicing Chandra Namaskara is probably a relatively recent yogic practice, perhaps dating to the late 20th century, but practices of worshipping the moon are undoubtedly ancient. The moon was traditionally regarded in certain yogic texts as the source of immortality.
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